Conversations With Coleman Justice in the Age of Retribution with Andy McCarthy
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Dec 1, 2025 In this engaging conversation, Andy McCarthy, a former chief assistant U.S. attorney and now a National Review columnist, dives into the intricate world of modern lawfare and justice. He examines the prosecutions of Donald Trump and his political rivals, arguing that many crossed the line into lawfare. McCarthy also highlights the implications of high-profile cases, assesses the shifting dynamics in American justice, and advocates for a return to ethical prosecution standards that prioritize serious crime over political agendas.
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From Marshal To Major Federal Prosecutor
- Andy McCarthy described joining the U.S. Attorney's Office after working in the witness protection program and interning while in night law school.
- He worked on the Pizza Connection and mafia cases, which launched his long prosecutorial career in the Southern District of New York.
Why The Mafia Fell Apart
- McCarthy argues harsh narcotics sentencing plus witness protection created strong cooperation incentives that helped beat the mafia.
- He credits RICO and aggressive use of enterprise-based prosecutions as transformational tools.
Why Crime Fell After The 1990s
- McCarthy links rising crime from the 1960s to progressive ideas reducing enforcement and expanded due-process protections.
- He credits intelligence-based policing and CompStat for the later dramatic drop in crime in the 1990s and 2000s.
